Mental Health & Well-Being

At Sherdley Primary we believe that the emotional well-being of our children and their families is essential in making good progress in life. We know that positive mental health underpins effective relationships, builds resilience, enables flexibility of mind and thought, as well as being crucial for the learning of new skills. Learning about positive mental health provides the fundamental foundations to our curriculum. The teaching of Mental Health Awareness at Sherdley is never in addition to our academic subjects, it is equal to and taught alongside. We acknowledge that in times of challenge our children’s mental health and well-being must be prioritised before successful academic learning can take place in and around the classroom.
Our experience tells us that children need different levels of well-being support at different times in their lives. Life is forever changing. Challenges come and go. We have an experienced team of staff who can support children if or when their mental health changes, deteriorates or becomes chaotic.
We have a graduated approach to supporting our children’s mental health and well-being. This is a snap shot of this support. Further information can be found in our Mental Health Policy.
Stage 1:
Parents / carers share any concerns with their child’s class teacher. A short, fixed term plan will be agreed and implemented. This will be reviewed and collectively discussed.
Stage 2:
If concerns remain, the class teacher will discuss them with the Assistant Head. A referral form will be completed either by the parent / carer or class teacher. This referral will be discussed with the Pastoral Team during their half termly meetings.The child will be allocated a package of support. This will be shared with parents / carers and class teacher. Support may be 1:1, a small group or a larger group. Progress towards these targets will be monitored each half term. Progress will also be shared with parents / carers and class teacher.
Stage 3:
It may be necessary to discuss a child’s needs with external professionals such as Barnados, Camhs or Educational Psychology team. We will always seek your consent before we do. The aim would be to seek further recommendations and support for your child. You may be invited to meetings to share your concerns, views and aspirations.
Emergency:
If at any time you feel that your child’s life is at risk – You should take them immediately to A&E
The nearest A&E for children is Whiston Hospital. There is also one at Ormskirk Hospital.
Advice, Support and Information:
www.sthelens.gov.uk/send – To the main St Helens SEND page
www.childline.org.uk/toolbox/games/ – Free online games to help regulate emotions
www.nspcc.org.uk/keeping-children-safe/support-for-parents/mental-health-parenting/ – Support for Parents / Carers
www.nwbh.nhs.uk/st-helens-child-health-services – CAMHS St Helens
www.mind.org.uk
www.place2be.org.uk/ – Supporting Children’s Mental Health
www.liverpoolcamhs.com/websites-apps/ – Support, websites and apps
https://www.kooth.com – Online support for pupils aged 11+